Have the Hard Conversations Early

When No Choice Becomes the Right Choice

"My own doctor said I could no longer live independently, I had to move to assisted living. So, I moved not by my choice, but by hers. But I certainly have no regrets over that. They've given me the treatment I needed to get well." Hear from Donna, a current resident of The Vista, as she shares her journey from independent to assisted living—how a doctor’s decision became a new chapter filled with community, connection, and enjoyment. Disclaimer: References to specific businesses in this episode are provided for informational purposes only. St. John’s United does not endorse, sponsor, or maintain any financial relationship with the entities mentioned, and neither party receives compensation from their inclusion.

Live in Their World

"We encourage them to interact and socialize but also give them the dignity of 'I'm not ready yet' and give them their space, checking in when they need it and giving them grace to adjust to new home." Hear from Domonique, Certified Nurse Assistant and Cottage Coordinator at St. John’s United, as she reflects on her work in assisted living and memory care and shares the meaningful connections she builds with residents while supporting them with dignity and compassion. In This Episode - Terms Explained: Respite care is a short-term service that gives the primary caregiver a break from their usual caregiving responsibilities. Another trained professional temporarily takes over care duties to ensure the person receiving care is safe and supported. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, September 19). Respite care. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/respite-care [https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/respite-care?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) is a trained healthcare worker who helps patients with daily living tasks (bathing, dressing, eating, moving), monitors vital signs, and supports comfort and hygiene—all under the supervision of a licensed nurse. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2025, June 9). Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.cms.gov/priorities/nursing-home-careers/overview/certified-nursing-assistant-cna [https://www.cms.gov/priorities/nursing-home-careers/overview/certified-nursing-assistant-cna?utm_source=chatgpt.com]

No Regrets About Moving

"I am just so grateful and so happy to be there. It's so much security and freedom and just knowing whatever comes up somebody somewhere on that campus in that organization will figure it out for me." Hear from Nancy, an independent living resident at St. John’s United's Mission Ridge, as she shares her experiences, insights, and what her life is like in a vibrant senior living community.

Have the Hard Conversations Early

“As Dad was leaving rehab, we realized he needed more care than I could provide. That’s when we decided on assisted living instead of one of my furnished rentals. The case manager at St. John’s was so helpful—she gave me a list of facilities in the community so I could make an informed decision.”  Hear from Juanita, whose father’s health emergency meant an unexpected move from rural living into assisted living at St. John’s United. She shares the challenges of navigating that transition—and the relief of seeing her dad safe and supported. In This Episode - Terms Explained: A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives someone the authority to act on behalf of another person in financial, legal, or healthcare matters. For more information, see the National Council on Aging: What Is a Power of Attorney? [https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-is-power-of-attorney/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]  (National Council on Aging, 2025).

In Community There is Life

"We try to make their lives as similar as possible to what life was like at home." Hear from Kelly Holmes, Director of Community Engagement at St. John’s United, as she shares her passion for coordinating activities that enrich seniors’ lives, foster community, and help ease the transition into senior living.